CNA Fact Sheet

the occupation has modest entry requirements, high physical and emotional demands, and a lack of advancement opportunities
CNAs may not perform any nursing services that require a professional nursing license
home health aides is projected to be the fastest growing occupation through 2016
the pay is low - the hourly pay is around $12 but can be as high as $15 in some areas
a great number of job openings for nursing assistants and excellent job opportunities are expected
CNA jobs are mostly in nursing and residential care facilities, hospitals, and home health care services
training programs vary with state regulations

To become a CNA you must be at least 16 years of age, meet the pre-screening requirements (physical exam, convictions), complete a minimum of 150 hours of training in an approved program ( 50 hours of theory and 100 hours of supervised clinical training in a nursing facility ), successfully complete a competency exam or be eligible through reciprocity from another state. After the initial period of certification, CNA certification is good for two years. California-licensed RNs and LVNs who are in good standing with their licensing board are permited to work as a CNA without certification but they may only perform duties consistent with the pay and job title of a CNA.

A home health aide may receive training before taking the competency test the federal law suggesting at least 75 hours of classroom and practical training while supervised by a registered nurse. Federal guidelines do not require a competency exam prior to certification as a home health aide however, federal regulations do require home health agencies to conduct competency evaluations for home health aides under their employment before allowing them to provide any home health services.

The Department of Health Services, Aide and Technician Certification Section certifies nurse assistants (CNAs) and home health aides (HHAs) and maintains a registry for these health care workers.